The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Friday, March 21, 2025
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Lane Events Center Hosting April 3 Open House for Long Range Planning Effort
Lane Events Center (LEC) is updating its Master Plan to help guide investment in the property over the next 10 to 20 years and hosting an open house to explore initial concepts, discuss emerging values, and help shape a shared vision for the Lane Events Center.
Community Open House
Thursday, April 3 | 5–7 p.m.
Lane Events Center
796 W 13th Ave, Eugene, OR 97402
Convention Center, Meeting Room 4
“This is our first open house for the Master Plan and the feedback people give will help us keep refining our vision for the future and look for ways to make Lane Events Center an even more integral part of the community,” said Lane Events Center Manager Corey Buller. “We had a great response to our earlier survey and now we’re hoping to see a lot of neighbors and community members here on April third.”
LEC is a multi-purpose site on 52 acres near downtown Eugene. It includes a 100,000 sq. ft. convention center, 18 rentable spaces and facilities, and 20 acres of outdoor event space. In a typical year, LEC accommodates up to 1,250 event days, drawing approximately 785,000 visitors to a variety of events including the Lane County Fair, trade shows, concerts, sporting events, community festivals, and educational programs.
The Master Plan process will help Lane County:
- Conduct an engagement process that gathers diverse perspectives and ideas
- Identify community needs, values, and priorities
- Shape a shared vision for Lane Events Center
- Develop community-guided designs concepts to bring the vision to life
The proposed plan will be presented to the Board of County Commissioners for possible adoption this summer.
Stay up-to-date by signing up for email updates at www.LECMasterPlan.org.
About Lane Events Center Master Plan — The Master Plan is a comprehensive, long-term planning document that provides a strategic framework for the development, improvement, and management of LEC. An updated master plan will help guide investment in the property and help us prioritize infrastructure updates. This plan will support LEC as it continues to grow and adapt, serving as a hub for events, programs and emergency services that reflect the evolving needs and priorities of our community. https://www.laneeventscenter.org/
Lane and Douglas County Rural Reach Project Secures $8.5 Million for Broadband Expansion
(Eugene, Ore.) — Lane Council of Governments (LCOG), Lane County, and Douglas Fast Net (DFN) jointly announce $8.5 million from the Oregon Broadband Office to complete the Lane and Douglas County Rural Reach Project to bring high-speed, reliable broadband internet to thousands of rural residents by 2026.
This funding will bring affordable and reliable, high-speed internet access to more than 1,900 homes across rural Lane County and parts of rural Douglas County. A total of 11 project sub-areas are slated for funding across both counties. Of the locations, 1,485 are currently unserved by “broadband” (i.e. they have no service, or service below 25 Mbps upload and 3 Mbps download).
“Because the scoring criteria of the BDP [Broadband Deployment Program] weighted lack of service heavily, the priority areas in Lane County were identified almost exclusively based on their concentration of unserved and underserved locations,” noted Interim LCOG Planning Manager, Jacob Callister. “We are thrilled with how many locations will get improved service through this BDP award, but we know that it does not fully close the digital divide for everyone in Lane County.”
The project will begin in 2025. All awarded funds must be utilized, and projects must be operational by December 2026.
“We are thrilled to expand on our broadband deployments in both Lane and Douglas Counties thanks to this award,” DFN CEO Todd Way said. “Founded in 2001 by Douglas Electric Cooperative, DFN’s mission has always aimed to ensure that our rural friends and neighbors have access to essential broadband services. This award significantly advances our mission, helping us bring reliable internet connectivity to more communities.”
“Access to highspeed broadband is a literal lifeline for rural communities,” said Lane County Commissioner Heather Buch, whose district covers rural communities in south and east Lane County. “Connecting thousands more rural families through this project will continue to help them access critical job-related, educational, and other resources that often give more connected communities a competitive edge.”
“Broadband isn’t just about gaming and movies; it has become as essential as running water and electricity. It’s about whether rural communities can survive. The challenge in rural areas is it’s just not economical for private parties to invest there alone. LCOG has the ability to coordinate partnerships so projects like this become reality,” said Brenda Moore, Lane Council of Governments Executive Director.
Project History — In November and December 2024, the Oregon Broadband Office announced that it had issued Notices of Intent to Award a total of nearly $141,000,000 through the Office’s Broadband Deployment Program (BDP), part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund (CPF). This funding will support the construction and deployment of high-speed, reliable wired broadband internet at speeds of 100/100 Mbps to unserved and underserved locations across the state.
As part of its application for funding, Lane Council of Governments, in partnership with Lane County, identified priority internet service areas, and competitively secured private Internet Service Provider DFN in late 2023. DFN, which has operated in rural markets in southwestern Oregon for over 20 years, will be the formal recipient of the BDP funds.
The Oregon Broadband Office received 62 applications requesting approximately $445 million for broadband infrastructure projects around the state. The total program allocation is $157 million. This oversubscription shows the demand to bring reliable broadband to all Oregonians.
Awardees of BDP funds were ranked based on a composite score that prioritizes outcomes:
- Social Vulnerability Index – Applicants receive a 5% score bonus if 80% or more of their proposed project service locations are located within areas designated as “Moderate to High” or “High” on the state of Oregon’s Social Vulnerability Index.
- Unserved Locations – 5 points for other eligible locations where wired 25/3 service already exists.
- Affordability – Applicants with projects that can offer service at $30/month or less receive an additional 5 points per location. Applicants with projects that can provide service at $50/month or less receive two additional points per location.
To learn more about the Lane and Douglas County Rural Reach Project, including whether specific locations are included in the project, DFN, LCOG, and Lane County have jointly developed a BDP project webpage at www.lcog.org/broadband. Additional context, contact info, and other resources are available at that site.
For more information about the Oregon Broadband Office, visit www.broadband.oregon.gov.
About Lane Council of Governments — LCOG’s mission is to coordinate and provide high quality public services in Lane County. Lane Council of Governments is dedicated to serving the public interest and enhancing the quality of life for citizens of Lane County. LCOG serves as a regional planning, coordination, program development, and service delivery organization in local communities across Lane County. Learn more at www.lcog.org.
SPRING INTO ACTION: DONATE TO OPERATION REFILL THE STOCKPILE
To kick off Operation Fill the Stockpile, First Christian Church will host a one-day donation drive on Friday, March 21st, 2025, from 1 PM to 5 PM, where community members can drop off donations and enjoy refreshments.
After the event, donations will be accepted Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 2 PM at First Christian Church. Items can also be purchased from the Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to 1166 Oak St., Eugene, OR 97401.
Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with First Christian Church, is calling on the community to Spring into Action by donating essential items for those experiencing homelessness. Operation Fill the Stockpile is an effort to collect much-needed clothing and survival gear to help our unhoused neighbors stay safe and warm during the colder months, as well as in the warmer months ahead.
“Spring is a time when many people clean out their homes and refresh their spaces. Instead of discarding unwanted items, consider giving them a second life by donating to those in need,” said Amy Wilson, Lane County Human Services Program Coordinator. “With unpredictable weather this time of year, these donations can be the difference between safety and hardship for those without shelter. Your generosity can make a life-saving difference for someone facing the elements.”
Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share
Donated items will be distributed to local homeless outreach providers who directly support unsheltered individuals.
Zadeh Kicks Fraud Scheme In Eugene Court
Two Eugene residents, Michael Malekzadeh, 42, the owner of the now-defunct Zadeh Kicks, and Bethany Mockerman, 42, its Financial Officer, pleaded guilty to criminal charges on Thursday relating to the Zadeh Kicks fraud scheme.
The scheme cost customers over $65 million in unfulfilled orders. Zadeh also defrauded financial institutions out of over $15 million.
Zadeh Kicks LLC sold limited edition and collectible sneakers online. Court documents indicate that Malekzadeh started the sneakers business in 2013.
He bought limited edition and collectible sneakers to resell online. From January 2020, the company offered preorders of sneakers before their public release dates, and Malekzadeh collected money upfront before fulfilling orders.
He advertised and sold sneakers before collecting payments from customers for preorders, despite knowing he could not satisfy all orders placed. Over $65 million was owed to customers for undelivered sneakers by April 2022.
As CFO at Zadeh Kicks, Mockerman conspired with the owner to provide false and altered financial information to several financial institutions, including altered bank statements on over 15 bank loan applications. Following these applications, $15 million in loans were paid out.
On Thursday, Malekzadeh pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud, while Mockerman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
During the investigation, which involved the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Oregon Intellectual Property Task Force, millions of dollars in cash with luxury goods that Malekzadeh acquired with the proceeds of his fraud were seized, including luxury watches, jewelry and hundreds of handbags.
Approximately $7.5 million was also seized from the sale of Malekzadeh’s residence in Eugene, his watches, and Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche luxury cars luxury cars.
Malekzadeh and Mockerman were charged on July 29, 2022. The pair face:
- Malekzadeh: On the first charge- a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, plus a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release for wire fraud, and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine on the second charge of conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
- Mockerman: A maximum sentence of 30 years in prison plus a $1,000,000 fine and five years of supervised release.
A U.S. district judge will sentence them later this year—on August 12 and August 26, respectively.
In their plea agreements, Malekzadeh and Mockerman agreed to pay restitution in full to their victims and, if necessary, forfeit any criminally derived proceeds and property used to facilitate their crimes identified by the government before sentencing.
– LCSO Case #25-1334 – Deputies arrest driver after stolen vehicle pursuit
On March 19th just before midnight, a Lane County Sheriff’s deputy spotted a black 1994 Dodge Ram pickup driving recklessly in the area of W. 11th Avenue and Beltline Highway. The vehicle matched the description of a recently stolen vehicle out of Eugene.
The deputy activated his vehicle’s lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop, but the driver only increased their reckless driving behavior, turned off their headlights, and accelerated to over 100 miles per hour. Due to other traffic in the area, the deputy disengaged and instead began coordinating with other deputies on the vehicle’s direction of travel.
Another deputy located the vehicle several miles away on Highway 126 West, still driving recklessly. With no other traffic in the area and no change in the driver’s behavior after not being pursued, the deputy initiated a pursuit. The pickup continued driving recklessly until crashing and rolling over near milepost 36. The driver, Jaedin Renae Duwell, 20, of Eugene, and a passenger were detained. Deputies also located methamphetamine during a search of the vehicle.
After further investigation, the passenger was released and Duwell was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail for: – Attempt to Elude Police Officer by Vehicle – Possession of a Stolen Vehicle – Reckless Driving – Reckless Endangering – Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine (Felony) – Unlawful Possession of Fentanyl – Coos County Circuit Court warrant for Interfering with a Peace Officer
3/18/25 – LCSO Case #25-1292 – Eugene man arrested for assault with pool cue, pellet gun
Arrest – Bailey Hill.jpeg On March 18th at about 7 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of an assault at a residence in the 2800 block of Bailey Hill Road, Eugene. Deputies responded and detained two males at the location.
As deputies investigated, they learned one of the males, Kerry Marnell Carsh, 64, struck another male resident at the location with a pool cue and attempted to tie him up with wire.
When Carsh was unsuccessful, the resident armed himself with a knife. Carsh then shot the resident multiple times with a pellet gun, causing significant injury. The resident cut Carsh several times with the knife before wrestling the pellet gun away and separating himself from Carsh.
Carsh was arrested and transported to an area hospital for his injuries. Once cleared by the hospital on March 19th, he was lodged at the Lane County Jail for: – Two counts of Assault in the 2nd Degree – Menacing – Coercion – Unlawful Use of a Weapon – Possession of Methamphetamine (Felony)
Juveniles arrested after shooting passing vehicles with realistic-looking airsoft gun
At 9:29 a.m. on March 18, Eugene Police responded to a call regarding two teen boys wearing black and shooting at passing vehicles in the 4th level of the Overpark at 1000 Oak Street. As multiple officers, detectives, and officers plus a K9 arrived at the location, the teens (age 13 and 14) fled on foot.
They were stopped several blocks later and both juveniles resisted but were ultimately taken into custody without incident. One of the teens was in possession of a realistic-looking airsoft gun that had an extended magazine, and a spring-loaded knife.
The 13-year-old male was arrested for Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree, Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree, and Escape in the Third Degree. The 14-year-old male was arrested for Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree, Escape in the Third Degree, and Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree. They were both lodged at Serbu. Case 25-04358
The Eugene Emeralds Confirming They are Leaving Eugene
The Emeralds publicly confirmed what they had said on the campaign trail that without funding for a new or improved stadium in Eugene, the Minor League Baseball franchise would relocate saying “We recognize that the loss of professional baseball in Eugene is deeply disappointing for many,” Allan Benavides, the Emeralds’ general manager, said in a press release. “Despite our exhaustive efforts to bring this project to life, we were ultimately unable to secure the unified community support needed for a stadium solution.”
Everyone Village in Eugene accepts cans and bottles with no limit
Typically, BottleDrop redemption centers accept a daily maximum of 350 containers per person, but Everyone Village can accept as many as you have, whether it’s 50 cans or 5,000 cans.
Everyone Village, located at 3825 Janisse St., accepts unlimited cans and bottles three days a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They will be adding an additional day to the schedule in April.
REEL on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1136451074555235 FOLLOW: https://www.facebook.com/everyonevillage WEBSITE: https://everyonevillage.org
Lane County Government — Part of being prepared for an emergency is knowing how you will receive emergency alerts and life safety information. Lane County uses several tools to alert residents.
Watch the video below to learn more about those tools and decide which ones you will rely on in the event of an emergency or disaster. 
https://vimeo.com/565852770 Sign up to receive Lane Alerts emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org#NationalPreparednessMonth
Eugene Springfield Fire · ESF’s Young Women’s Fire Camp is now accepting applications.
The camp will run from June 23rd – June 27th this year. The deadline for sign up is May 1, 2025. You can sign up on our website at: https://www.eugene-or.gov/2983/Young-Womens-Fire-Camp.
“When It Hits The Fan”: Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management
This month on Lane County Emergency Management’s 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼𝑡 𝐻𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛, Emergency Manager Tiffany Brown shares essential tips on what to do in an emergency.
Get ready, stay informed, and make sure you’re prepared for anything! 
Listen now: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube
About Lane County Emergency Management – Lane County Emergency Management is committed to preparing the community for emergencies and disasters through education, planning, and response coordination. Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan.
White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.
White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714) — Eugene Coverage: 24/7 (541-682-5111)
Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental
Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene
Registration open for our FREE programs.
Some programs are drop-in, so no registration is required—just show up and get involved!
For more information and links to register, visit our website: https://www.eugene-or.gov/4888/Youth-Empowerment-Program
The Oregon Department of Revenue has added features to the “Where’s My Refund” tool.
Users can learn more about the status of their refund, they can see when additional information is needed, and the website is easier to navigate. To use the tool, taxpayers need to create a login at Revenue Online. https://revenueonline.dor.oregon.gov/tap/_/
Oregon’s newest refundable personal income tax credit put more than $39 million into the pockets of low-income families in its first year in 2024.
The Oregon Kids Credit, created by the Legislature in 2023, is a refundable credit for low-income people with young dependent children. For those with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $25,750 or less, the full credit is $1,000 per child for up to five dependent children under the age of six at the end of the tax year—a maximum benefit of $5,000. A partial credit is available for individuals and families with an MAGI up to $30,750.
So far in 2025, more than 22,000 taxpayers have claimed $25 million in benefits from the Oregon Kids Credit.
When combined with the federal Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Earned Income Credit, it could help boost the tax refund for the lowest income families by a total of $13,770.
The EITC is for people with an adjusted gross income of up to $66,818 in 2024. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $7,830 on their federal tax return, and a maximum Oregon EIC of $940 on their state tax return.
All three credits are fully refundable, meaning the portion of the credit that is larger than what a taxpayer owes can be refunded. Taxpayers may even be able to claim the credits and receive a tax refund if they don’t normally file a tax return.
To claim the credits, taxpayers must file a return. To assist taxpayers, Oregon offers several free filing options, including free fillable forms and the new Direct File Oregon. Taxpayers who need help filing their taxes can also find free assistance options on the agency website.
Families who are eligible for the Oregon Kids Credit are also likely eligible for the refundable Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC), which helps low- to moderate-income families pay for the care of their dependents while they’re working, looking for work, or attending school.
For more information about the federal EITC, the Oregon EIC, the Oregon Kids Credit and other similar credits, go to the Tax benefits for families page.
Taxpayers filing their own 2024 income tax returns can get free assistance using the new combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon when Oregon Department of Revenue volunteers visit libraries across the state this tax season.
OHA urges people to check immunity against measles; get vaccinated
As cases appear in other states, including neighboring California, Oregon health officials recommend measures to stay safe
With spring break and summer travel season approaching, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) encourages people to make sure they are protected against measles. Getting the MMR vaccine — for measles, mumps and rubella — is the most effective prevention tool against the highly contagious virus.
Twelve U.S. states, including California, Texas and New Mexico, have reported cases of measles since Jan 1. While Oregon has no cases so far in 2025, last year the state recorded 31 confirmed cases — its highest measles count in more than 30 years — during an outbreak among unvaccinated people, including two children younger than 5.
“Measles is an amazingly contagious virus that unfortunately in recent years has re-emerged in our communities, primarily due to a declining percentage of people who are getting vaccinated,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.
“Measles is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection for individuals who haven’t received immunity through the MMR vaccine,” said Dawn Nolt, M.D., M.P.H., professor of pediatrics (infectious diseases) in the OHSU School of Medicine.
“The good news is that we have a highly safe and effective vaccine – it is our strongest line of defense and the best way to keep yourself, your children and your community safe. If you have questions about the vaccine, we encourage you to talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns.” she said.
Cieslak said anyone planning travel to countries or states where measles is circulating should get the MMR vaccine before they go. “Getting the vaccine now will allow you to start building immunity prior to your trip,” he said.
Cieslak addresses common questions about measles, symptoms, the vaccine and more in this week’s Oregon Health News newsletter, published Thursday.
Symptoms — Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.
Symptoms begin seven to 10 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.
About 20% of people who contract measles are hospitalized. In developed countries in recent years, one or two of every 1,000 measles cases have been fatal.
Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs, sneezes, or even breathes. People who are infected can be unknowingly contagious for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward.
That means someone with measles can be unaware they are infected and can easily spread the virus before noticing any symptoms.
During the 2024 outbreak in Oregon, OHA worked with local public health officials to share information about specific locations where known measles cases had spent time so that members of the public were aware they may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
What families of school-age children should know — In addition to reducing risk of transmission, getting the vaccine can help families avoid having to isolate at home for several weeks if they are exposed to measles.
Additionally, state law requires an unvaccinated child exposed to the virus to be excluded from school or childcare during the period when they could become sick, which is usually for 21 days after exposure.
This exclusion period can be extended if there are more measles cases.
What people born before 1957 should know — People born before 1957 do not need to be vaccinated against measles—they are presumed to be immune.
That’s because, before the measles vaccine was first available to the public in 1963, virtually all children would contract measles by their teenage years, making them immune for life.
What people born in 1957 or later should know — People born in 1957 or later, however, could still benefit from the vaccine because they would have been at least 6 years old in 1963. At that age, there was still a meaningful chance they hadn’t been exposed to measles yet and could benefit from the new vaccine.
People who can document receiving the measles vaccine series at some point in their lives or have documentation showing a previous measles diagnosis or laboratory evidence of immunity can be confident they are immune and do not need to receive the MMR vaccine.
What anyone traveling should know —
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following measles prevention measures for anyone traveling, especially internationally:
- Babies ages 6 through 11 months can receive an early dose of the vaccine to protect them for travel; but they should then receive another dose at 12 through 15 months and a final dose between ages 4 and 6.
- Children older than a year who have not been vaccinated should immediately receive one dose and follow with a second dose at least 28 days later.
- Children older than a year with one prior dose should receive an early second dose of MMR vaccine separated by at least 28 days.
- Teenagers and adults previously vaccinated with one dose should consider getting a second dose if they are traveling to an area where measles is circulating.
- People preparing to travel internationally who have not been immunized should get the vaccine prior to departure.
More CDC recommendations can be found here.
In recent years, OHA has bolstered its tracking of communicable diseases, such as measles, with the development and modernization of data reporting tools, including an interactive, web-based dashboard that visualizes data on communicable disease incidence in Oregon. The dashboard’s data are disease, month, demographic group and county.
Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024–2027 Strategic Plan.
The plan further supports expanding access to vaccines and other health resources for children, parents and families in all communities in Oregon. — To learn more about measles and to receive daily status updates of measles outbreak data, visit OHA’s Measles and Rubeola web page.
Oregon State Representative Pam Marsh introduced a bill Tuesday that would create a fund to help those who lose their property to utility-caused fires.
HB3917 would allow utilities companies to create a fund of $800 million that would pay property damage claims arising from wildfires caused by their equipment. The fund will be managed by the Public Utilities Commission.
Another bill introduced by Marsh addressing utility companies’ roles in fire is HB3666, which requires utility companies to apply for a wildfire safety certification, meeting a requirement that she said isn’t currently set. If they meet the standard, the PUC will award them a wildfire safety certificate.
HB3917 doesn’t stop the ability to pursue civil action against a utility commission, but it does entail a caveat, that if you gain funds from a claim with the fund, you will not be able to pursue action against the utility provider.
Convicted Kidnapper Negasi Zuberi is Ordered to Pay Restitution
The U.S. District Court of Oregon says that convicted kidnapper Negasi Zuberi is ordered to pay more than $17,000 in restitution to two kidnapping victims involved in his high-profile case. Chief United States District Judge Michael McShane’s office says Zuberi must pay $14,000 for the health expenses related to the kidnapping of a woman from Seattle. Zuberi kept this victim in a homemade cinder block cell in the basement of his Klamath Falls home. The other victim, a Klamath Falls woman, will receive $2,975 for lost wages, medical costs and damaged personal items.
Oregon’s Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs are grappling with significant funding challenges after Congress passed a federal budget on March 14, 2024, eliminating all community project funding for FY 2025.
The Oregon CASA Network, which was slated to receive a critical $1.7 million earmark, now faces difficult decisions that could have far-reaching impacts on their ability to advocate for children in foster care. The national funding from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding trickles down to support CASA programs across Oregon to support services for the state’s most vulnerable children. CASA volunteers, who are trained to advocate for children in foster care due to abuse or neglect, . rely on these funds to perform their essential work. However, the recent federal budget cuts threaten programs and staffing.
Wanted Suspect Dies by Apparent Suicide during High-Risk Traffic Stop, Oregon State Police Investigating
UPDATE: 3-20-25 Next-of-kin has been notified. The deceased suspect is Franklin James Hodson, 36, of Grants Pass. Oregon State Police is handling the investigation. Correction: the suspect had one warrant for 15 charges, not 15 warrants as the news release stated.
JCSO Case 25-1457
CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – A wanted suspect died by apparent suicide this afternoon in the 6000 block of Table Rock Road in rural Central Point. Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies and US Marshals were in the area actively searching for a suspect with 15 nationwide extraditable warrants for child sex abuse.
The suspect was involved in a domestic altercation on Orr Drive in rural Central Point March 16 where he menaced a woman with a firearm. JCSO deputies developed probable cause for his arrest for domestic violence-menacing, unlawful use of a firearm, and the sex abuse warrants.
Law enforcement learned of his whereabouts, attempted to detain the suspect and he eluded capture in a vehicle at approximately 2:10 PM. JCSO deputies and US Marshals conducted a high-risk traffic stop near the intersection of Orr Drive and Table Rock Road. After a brief standoff, the suspect died by apparent suicide by firearm at 2:15 PM.
The suspect was wanted out of California on 15 child sex abuse charges. The felony warrants were for 10 counts of lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14, and five counts of oral copulation with a child under 14. The suspects name will be released following next of kin notification.
Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to conduct the investigation. Further information will come from OSP.
Heavy Rainstorm Leads to Central Point Woman’s Tragic Death after She Drowns in Flooded Creek
JCSO Case 25-1401 CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – Heavy rain and flooding led to the tragic death of a Central Point woman yesterday afternoon. Our condolences go to her family and friends in this difficult time. Next-of-kin has been notified. Out of respect for the family’s privacy we will not be releasing the decedent’s name.
Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies responded to a call for a missing woman yesterday, March 16 at 4:21 PM in the 5000 block of Kane Creek Road in rural Central Point. Investigators learned the woman was attempting to clear branches from a culvert under her driveway when her waders (waterproof overalls) filled with water and swift flood waters pulled her through the culvert and into nearby Kane Creek.
Jackson County Fire District 3 responded with a swift water Technical Rescue Team. FD3 personnel located the woman approximately 100 yards down the creek and she was transported by Mercy Flights ambulance to a local hospital. Medics attempted lifesaving measures but she was pronounced deceased.
This incident is a tragic reminder of the dangers of rainstorms leading to flooding. During periods of heavy rains, stay away from flood-prone areas such as stream beds, drainage ditches, and culverts. Move to higher ground if flooding threatens your area. If you live or work in flood-prone areas, remain alert during heavy rainstorms. Fast-moving water can erode stream and river banks, making them unstable and dangerous. The water may carry debris on and beneath the surface which can pose significant risks. For more information on flood safety go to: https://www.ready.gov/floods. There is no further information available for release.
Updated essential salmonid habitat map available now
The map identifies streams where removal-fill permits are often required to help protect critical habitat for salmon species
The State of Oregon has published the 2025 essential salmonid habitat map, which shows streams where activities like building docks or adding riprap usually require a removal-fill permit.
The map identifies streams that are critical habitat for Chinook salmon, steelhead trout, and other sensitive, threatened or endangered fish species. Oregon law protects these streams by requiring a removal-fill permit for most projects that remove or add any materials.
View the 2025 map and learn more.
The map is updated as often as yearly to reflect current Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife data. These regular updates keep habitat information accurate, which in turn helps property owners do their part to protect fish, said Oregon Department of State Lands Director Vicki Walker.
“Anyone who lives along a river or stream should check the map,” Walker said. “The first step in protecting fish populations is knowing whether a waterway is essential habitat.”
The 2025 update added approximately 113 stream miles of essential habitat in multiple areas of Oregon. Approximately 12 stream miles are no longer essential habitat. See the draft map to view the changes for 2025.
The annual map update process includes Tribal engagement and a public review and comment period.
Stay informed about future map updates by joining DSL’s email list for essential salmonid habitat map information. Sign up to receive emails.
Oregon and nine other states recently achieved a collective goal of shifting new car buyers toward electric rather than gas-powered vehicles in an effort to reduce pollution and combat climate change.
The states have collectively registered 3.3 million new electric vehicles in the last 12 years, fulfilling a 2013 agreement to do so by 2025, according to a report shared Monday by the Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management, a Boston-based nonprofit association of state air pollution control agencies.
Transportation was and remains the largest source of planet warming greenhouse gases in Oregon and the nation. When then-Gov. John Kitzhaber signed onto the 2013 agreement, just 300 electric vehicles were registered in Oregon.
Today, more than 100,000 electric vehicles have been registered in the state, according to the Oregon Department of Energy. That’s about 5% of all new cars registered in the state in the last decade.
Oregon Humane Society Warns about Scam Regarding Medical Bills for Your Lost Pet
Scammers are targeting the owners of lost pets pretending to be the Oregon Humane Society, the real Oregon Humane Society said on Friday.
In a so-called “spoofing” scam, the callers tell pet owners that their missing pet is injured and needs medical care. Then they demand payment.
“This scam preys on vulnerable people who are searching for their lost pet, which makes it particularly cruel,” Laura Klink, public information officer for the Oregon Humane Society said in a news release.
The calls even look like they are coming from the Oregon Humane Society’s main number, Klink said.
The humane society uses online payment portals including ezyVet and PayJunction, Klink said, so it’s a red flag if the caller asks for money through services like Zelle or Venmo.
If pet owners are concerned they’re being targeted by this scam, they should hang up and call the Oregon Humane Society directly at (503) 285-7722, Klink said.
Common School Fund will send record-breaking $76.8 million to Oregon schools in 2025
Oregon’s K-12 public schools will receive a record $76.8 million from the Common School Fund in 2025, state officials announced today.
“Across the country, school districts are facing budget shortages caused by the expiration of federal pandemic relief dollars, declining enrollment, increasing costs due to inflation, and many other factors,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “Here in Oregon, we are lucky to have the Common School Fund – a critical and reliable resource in our shared goal to give students the best shot to succeed.”
Every one of Oregon’s 197 school districts receives money from the Common School Fund, which has supported public education since statehood, every year. How much each district receives depends on the number of students served. Portland Public Schools, the state’s largest district, will receive $6.6 million in 2025. Redmond School District will receive $974,288. Coos Bay School District will receive $382,092.
The average 2025 distribution is $389,607. Bethel School District in Eugene, with about 5,000 students, will receive $806,193 in 2025. See how much every Oregon school district will receive from the Common School Fund in 2025 (PDF).
“The Common School Fund is consistent and can be used for anything, from keeping the lights on to providing instruction,” said Benjamin Dodds, teacher at Bethel School District’s Willamette High School. “That’s what makes it such a helpful funding source for schools across Oregon.”
The Common School Fund has contributed to schools since Oregon became a state, when the federal government granted nearly 3.4 million acres “for the use of schools.” The State Land Board – Oregon’s Governor, Secretary of State, and State Treasurer – was established to oversee these school lands dedicated to generating revenue for the Common School Fund.
Valued at $2.38 billion as of February 2025, the Common School Fund is managed by the Oregon State Treasury, with oversight from the Oregon Investment Council. The Fund achieved a 9.7 percent return in 2024.
Annually, 3.5 percent of the Fund is distributed to schools. The 2025 distribution of $76.6 million is $2.4 million more than the 2024 distribution of $74.2 million and $4.4 million more than the 2023 distribution of $72.2 million.
“Schools are the foundation of healthy families and communities,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. “We’re committed to safeguarding the Common School Fund and ensuring that our responsible investment strategies continue to generate returns that put more educators, counselors and other staff in front of students across Oregon.”
Today, about 681,000 acres of school lands in all 36 Oregon counties are managed by the Department of State Lands on behalf of the State Land Board. Ranchers and farmers, Tribal governments, businesses, and more work with DSL to lease and buy lands, plan for future community needs, and keep lands healthy. School lands generated $7.2 million in revenue during fiscal year 2024.
“This is a historic investment and a smart one,” said Secretary of State Tobias Read. “Oregonians value education because we know our tomorrow depends on the students and teachers in classrooms today. We must continue to manage these lands wisely so Oregonians can keep benefitting from this valuable resource for generations to come.”
About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.
Governor Kotek has been saying for months that Oregon’s public schools need more money, and they need to be held accountable for better academic outcomes.
Now Kotek — along with fellow Democrats Senate President Rob Wagner and Speaker of the House Julie Fahey — pushed two complementary bills forward to legislators this week. House Bill 2009 had its first hearing Monday afternoon; Senate Bill 141 is set to have its first hearing on Wednesday.
Both were presented earlier in the session as placeholder bills meant to study the adequacy of public education and school accountability. They now carry amendment proposals that lay out more specifics. This is the latest of several efforts in recent months to give Oregon more teeth when it comes to education.
This week’s bills would set new metrics for public schools, paying more attention to existing markers, like graduation rates, but with some additional measures as well, such as eighth-grade math and early grade attendance rates.
They also aim to fine-tune what the Oregon Department of Education is responsible for. But perhaps the biggest change is that the bills would require districts to take certain steps if they aren’t showing enough improvement.
As it stands now, districts that have been struggling and qualify for state “intensive” support can choose whether to opt in — a measure that was designed and funded through the Student Success Act in 2019. As of this fall, only a fraction of the districts that qualify have taken the state up on their offer.
An Oregon appeals court on Wednesday found that a gun control law approved by voters over two years ago is constitutional, reversing a lower court ruling from a state judge who had kept it on hold.
The law, one of the toughest in the nation, requires people to undergo a criminal background check and complete a gun safety training course in order to obtain a permit to buy a firearm.
It also bans high-capacity magazines holding more than 10 rounds. Measure 114 has been tied up in state and federal court since it was narrowly approved by voters in November 2022. It was among the first gun restrictions to be passed after a major 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling changed the guidance judges are expected to follow when considering Second Amendment cases.
A state judge in rural southeastern Oregon temporarily blocked the law from taking effect after gun owners filed a lawsuit claiming it violated the right to bear arms under the Oregon Constitution. Circuit Court Judge Robert S. Raschio then presided over a 2023 trial in Harney County and ruled that the law violated the state constitution. The Oregon attorney general’s office appealed the ruling.
Lincoln Co. District Attorney’s Office Requests Help Solving Kelly Disney Homicide
WE NEED YOUR HELP! 17-year-old Kelly Disney was last seen in the early morning hours on March 9, 1984, walking eastbound on Highway 20 near U.S. 101 in Newport, Oregon. Kelly was observed on Highway 20 by several witnesses before disappearing and never being seen alive again.
In July 1994, Kelly’s skull was found in an abandoned vehicle near Big Creek Reservoir outside of Newport, Oregon. It appeared her skull had recently been placed at that location and her death was ruled a homicide. Kelly’s disappearance and homicide remain unsolved.
The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Cold Case Team is seeking information from the community in an effort to solve the 40-year-old disappearance and homicide of Kelly Disney. We believe there are individuals in our community who may have information that could assist in this investigation.
If you knew Kelly or heard about her disappearance, we want to hear from you. Whether you experienced something firsthand or heard information thirdhand, that information is valuable. No matter how insignificant you feel the information might be, we still want to hear from you.
It is never too late to come forward and share information. If you do not want to reveal the circumstances in which you obtained the information, you can report information anonymously.
SUBMIT A TIP: CALL: (541) 265-0669 —- EMAIL: FindKellyDisney@co.lincoln.or.us
Spring Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon coast for spring break 2025
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OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Spring Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, March 22 through Sunday, March 30.
Trained Oregon State Park volunteers and rangers will be stationed at 14 sites along the Oregon Coast to help visitors spot whales and their calves and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily March 22-30.
The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. Cape Foulweather will not be included this year because it is closed due to construction.
“Spring is a great time for whale watching because the gray whales are usually closer to shore on their return trip, typically around a mile or so out, and they might have calves in tow,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
An estimated 19,260 gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores from late winter through June as part of their annual migration back to Alaska.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023. Since then, the estimated population has increased by roughly 30% from 14,530 in 2023 to 19,260 last year, according to NOAA. The numbers are on the rise overall, but the calf count is still low as the population continues to rebound.
Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and rangers.
A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online on the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 22-30. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.
Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Spring Whale Watch on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch.
The Chief Executive Officer of Waterfall Community Health Center in North Bend has resigned. The former Gresham pastor is accused of sexually abusing teenagers.
According to a notice of proposed disciplinary action from the Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, between roughly 1998 and 2001, Lance Nelson engaged in sexual misconduct with two minors. The board says Nelson remained in contact with the minors through his connections with Springwater Church of the Nazarene in Gresham. It also says he continued the sexual misconduct with the two minors while he pursued a counseling degree and offered the two individuals counseling services.
The board says it did not learn of the alleged conduct until 2023. On Tuesday, the Waterfall Health Center announced in a Facebook post that Nelson had resigned effective immediately.
Coos Bay Man Faces Federal Charges for Producing and Distributing Child Pornography
EUGENE, Ore.—A Coos Bay, Oregon man was arraigned in federal court Tuesday for possessing, distributing, attempting to produce, and producing child pornography.
Thomas Owen Barnett, 39, has been charged with attempting to use and using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and possessing and distributing child pornography.
According to court documents, between September and December 2023, Barnett is alleged to have knowingly and intentionally used a minor to engage in and record sexually explicit conduct. In September 2024, Barnett is further alleged to have used Kik and Instagram, online social media platforms, to engage in chats involving child sex abuse, seek opportunities to engage in child sexual abuse, and advertise the sale of child pornography. At times, Barnett posed as a young man or a minor female to persuade his victims to produce and exchange child pornography, including requests for sexually explicit materials depicting an infant.
Barnett made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on May 27, 2025.
Attempting to use a minor and using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct are each punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison with a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence, distribution of child pornography is punishable by up to 20 years in prison with a 5-year mandatory minimum sentence, and possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison. If convicted, Barnett also faces up to a lifetime term of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 for each count.
This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
An Oregon appeals court on Wednesday found that a gun control law approved by voters over two years ago is constitutional, reversing a lower court ruling from a state judge who had kept it on hold.
The law, one of the toughest in the nation, requires people to undergo a criminal background check and complete a gun safety training course in order to obtain a permit to buy a firearm.
It also bans high-capacity magazines holding more than 10 rounds. Measure 114 has been tied up in state and federal court since it was narrowly approved by voters in November 2022. It was among the first gun restrictions to be passed after a major 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling changed the guidance judges are expected to follow when considering Second Amendment cases.
A state judge in rural southeastern Oregon temporarily blocked the law from taking effect after gun owners filed a lawsuit claiming it violated the right to bear arms under the Oregon Constitution. Circuit Court Judge Robert S. Raschio then presided over a 2023 trial in Harney County and ruled that the law violated the state constitution. The Oregon attorney general’s office appealed the ruling.
Spring break at Portland International Airport starts on Friday.
Eight-hundred-20-thousand travelers are expected to move through the airport through Sunday, April 6th.
Travel is expected to be slightly higher than last year. Monday March 31st and Friday, April 4th are expected to be the busiest days. Security lines could be long, so they’re advising travelers to arrive two hours before their flight.
Parking is also anticipated to be full. You can check parking lot levels at FlyPDX.com.
Northwest Digital Heritage reaches one million digital records of cultural heritage collections available to view online
Salem, OR – People around Oregon and the world now have free access to search over one million digitized photographs, letters, documents, and more from around the Pacific Northwest. These historic and cultural materials are available in Northwest Digital Heritage, a website that searches the collections of over 300 regional libraries, museums, and cultural heritage organizations.
Northwest Digital Heritage is an online search portal that gathers records from the online collections of libraries, museums, universities, historical societies, and other organizations in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. The site was created in 2021 through a partnership between the Oregon Heritage Commission, State Library of Oregon, and Washington State Library.
Items available through Northwest Digital Heritage span topics, from football and women’s suffrage to Tribal treaties, Black history and culture, Crater Lake, and much more. The content has proven valuable to educators and students doing classroom projects, genealogists researching family connections, scholarly researchers, historians, cultural heritage organizations making exhibits, and other lifelong learners.
The over one million materials include over 60,000 photos from Oregon State Archives’ Oregon Scenic Images Collection, 20,000 items from the Oregon Historical Society Research Library, 5,000 records from the Harney County Library, 13,000 images from the Salem Public Library, and nearly 2,000 materials from the Five Oaks Museum in Washington County.
The collections in Northwest Digital Heritage are also included in the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA), which helps bring this unique and local Northwest content to a national audience. More than 5,000 institutions throughout the nation have contributed over 50 million records to the DPLA to date.
“Being able to search one million records for primary sources documenting the human experience in the Pacific Northwest is an incredible opportunity for those interested in history,” says Katie Henry, Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator. “The three Northwest Digital Heritage partners know these are only a fraction of cultural materials held by hundreds of organizations across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. We look forward to working with existing and new partners to continue growing this incredible resource.”
In addition to helping make this resource available, the Oregon Heritage Commission, State Library of Oregon, and Washington State Library assist heritage organizations across the Pacific Northwest. Such assistance includes:
- Training, resources, information, and guidance on digitizing and making collections accessible online;
- Grants and funding opportunities; and
- Hosting organizations’ online collections.
Northwest Digital Heritage is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the State Library of Oregon and Washington State Library. To learn more visit https://www.northwestdigitalheritage.org.
OREGON DIVISION OF FINANCIAL REGULATION CREATES COMMERCIAL INSURANCE GUIDES FOR BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) recently released a series of new consumer guides focused on commercial property and casualty insurance. The five new guides can be found on DFR’s website:
- Guides to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Shelters – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Nonprofits – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Child care providers – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Restaurants – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
These guides explain key features of commercial insurance policies, how to plan for and purchase coverage, and what to do if you are having difficulty finding insurance for your business. It also includes useful descriptions of different types of coverage and what factors insurers use to determine what premium you pay. Individual guides are also available that define special considerations for shelters, nonprofits, child care facilities, and restaurants. These provide tips for overcoming distinct challenges encountered with these types of organizations and businesses.
“By taking proactive measures, business owners and nonprofits can better manage their risks and ensure they have the necessary protection in place,” said Andrew Stolfi, Oregon’s insurance commissioner and director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “We are hopeful these guides can help people navigate the intricacies of insurance and better understand terminology, technicalities, and how to get coverage if a commercial entity is struggling to obtain coverage in traditional markets.”
DFR has a variety of other publications to help consumers with auto insurance, health and life insurance, disaster resources, student loans, managing your finances, and more on its website.
If you have questions about your insurance, contact your insurance company or agent, or you can contact one of DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or at dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.
This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 6th at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.
The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.
The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations.
Registration is closing soon for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K
Oregon Parks Forever — Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests. Registration is now open for the 2025 Run for the Trees at www.orparksforever.org.
Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests. You must register by April 1st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.
Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 19 and 27 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day). Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15.
For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks. Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration. This year, the trees will be planted in the Santiam Canyon.
Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.
As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its fifth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include eleven other states. Together, Michigan, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Maryland, Virginia and Tennessee will “lock arms” as they help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.
“We are thrilled to partner with Bob Ross, Inc. and these other eleven states on the Happy Little 5K concept as a way to honor the late Bob Ross and create a legacy event to plant trees,” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.”
Oregon Parks Forever is joining this event as an expansion of our efforts to fund the replanting of trees killed by wildfires, heat domes and invasive insects. Over the past two years, Oregon Parks Forever has been able to fund the replanting of more than 800,000 trees across Oregon.
“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”
Learn more about the program at www.orparksforever.org.
Indigenous Speakers Series Returns to the Museum in April with Three Inspiring Events
BEND, OR — This coming April, explore identity, cultures and how to live the good life when the High Desert Museum’s Indigenous Speaker Series returns. Promising a vibrant showcase of Indigenous voices, the series features an array of Indigenous artists, storytellers, scholars and more who share their unique perspectives with the community.
“We are honored to once again collaborate with Indigenous knowledge holders to bring vital conversations to our visitors,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “The April events are a continuation of an effort to elevate Indigenous voices to share the issues and cultures of the High Desert.”
The three April events explore topics such as identity, creativity, community and portraiture. Two of the events are connected to an exhibition open now at the Museum, Frank S. Matsura: Portraits from the Borderland. Featuring 20-plus enlarged portraits taken by Matsura of Native peoples in the early 1900s, the exhibition provides visitors a unique look at life in Okanogan County in Washington state during a time of transition. The exhibition originated at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture in Spokane, Wash.
On April 1, Michael Holloman (Colville Confederated Tribes), a Washington State University associate professor and a curator of the original exhibition, will lead a panel discussion that looks deeper into Matsura’s life. “Frank S. Matsura: His Life and Portraits” also includes film and media scholar Glen Mimura and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Beth Harrington. The event will consider Matsura’s experiences as a Japanese-born photographer and his nuanced imagery of Native communities. Tickets are $5, with a 20% discount for Museum members and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/matsura-portraits.
Then, on April 25, the Museum will host LaRonn Katchia (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs), the director of Pathfinders, for a discussion of the short film. Katchia, a Warm Springs/Wasco/Paiute filmmaker and storyteller, will be joined by Thyreicia Simtustus, Kahmussa Green and Kiahna Allen (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs), who are featured in the film. Part of the Matsura exhibition at the Museum, the film explores how the three young leaders are finding their own paths in balancing Native and non-Native worlds. Tickets are $5, with Members receiving a 20% discount and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/pathfinders.
In between those two events, on April 17, the Museum will host Chris La Tray, Métis storyteller and award-winning author of Becoming Little Shell. La Tray will discuss the Anishinaabe word Mino-bimaadiziwin, meaning “the good life.” The concept emphasizes the importance of community well-being and living in harmony with the world around us. At its simplest, it is living a life in balance, but how?
Montana’s Poet Laureate from 2023-2025, La Tray is a descendent of the Pembina Band of the mighty Red River of the North and a member of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians. His first book, One-Sentence Journal: Short Poems and Essays from the World at Large, won the 2018 Montana Book Award and a 2019 High Plains Book Award. The event includes light refreshment and a no-host bar. Tickets are $12, with members receiving a 20% discount and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/the-good-life.
The Indigenous Speakers Series is made possible by The Roundhouse Foundation, with additional support from Author’s Unbound for the April 17 Chris La Tray event. For more information and to purchase tickets for Indigenous Speakers Series events, visit highdesertmuseum.org/indigenous-speakers-series.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM:
THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
The long-delayed deadline for REAL ID is now less than 2 months away. There’s a chance that full enforcement may get gradually rolled out, but May 7, 2025, is the changeover deadline.
Starting then, state-level ID cards, such as driver’s licenses, won’t be accepted for federal purposes, namely getting through airport security, unless it’s REAL ID-compliant.
If you plan to catch a domestic flight on or after May 7, you will be required to use a REAL ID. A little gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner is one of the easiest ways to know you’re holding a REAL ID.
In Oregon, it’s a black star. A REAL ID is an identification card that serves all of the same purposes of a standard drivers’ license or state-issued identification card. A federally-mandated switch to REAL ID for federal purposes, such as flying domestically, was originally signed into law by Congress in 2005.
The purpose is to establish “minimum security standards for license issuance and production,” according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website. The law, established four years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, came in response to federal calls for higher security standards in the U.S. Originally, the law mandated the switch to REAL ID by 2008, but it has been pushed back for various reasons due to logistical hurdles and later the COVID-19 pandemic.
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.
Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.
It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com
